Framing

Whether we are aware of it or not, framing surrounds us in our everyday lives. Framing transcends from traditional media sources, like TV and newspapers, and seeps into everyday interactions with other people. The definition we received in class today tells us that framing "sees how an event is named and defined and how that naming shapes public opinion." Frames are ideologies and everyone has their own set of ideologies. Whenever we interact with someone else, that other person is passing off their personal ideologies to us. The media has their frames, and many people are very aware of what kind of ideologies media outlets have. For example, the common belief is that Fox News is a very conservative, right wing news source; while CNN caters more to the liberal left wing. When we watch news stories on either of those networks we already have somewhat of an idea of how that station is going to present or frame the story. These preconceived notions often dissuade people from watching a certain news channel. Now back to personal framing. Until we get to know a person, being able to put a firm grasp on what their personal ideologies are is tough. Whenever we interact with someone about a current event, that person attempts to frame the story to fit their ideology, and in turn, pass off their ideas to us. Whether we like it or not, we ourselves have our own personal frames that we have developed over the years. The factors that build our frames include how we were raised, the beliefs of our families, and the areas were raised in. Becoming more aware of your personal frame, as well as how others frame events that occur, can be very beneficial in better interpreting current events.